Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) represent two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is renowned for its tactile feedback, featuring a satisfying bump and a higher-pitched sound profile that keyboards enthusiasts find delightful. Its unique attributes—classified as “Accented,” “Bouncy,” “Snappy,” and “Polished”—make it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more interactive and sensory typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a linear switch experience characterized by a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. With its bright, resonant sound and a super bouncy feel, the Lotus switch appeals to users who prefer a smooth keystroke without the tactile response. While both switches offer compelling qualities, they serve different typing styles—one emphasizing tactile feedback and the other prioritizing a linear glide. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to its clarity and resonance, making it particularly suitable for producing an impressive sound profile, especially in applications with RGB lighting, where its translucence enhances the overall aesthetic. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which yields a rounder and deeper sound profile. The softness of nylon facilitates sound absorption, thereby muting sharper sounds and providing a fuller auditory experience. This structural contrast highlights how the choice of top housing can shape the overall sound character of a switch.
At the bottom end of both switches, however, there is a commonality that bridges their differing top housings. Both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deep and rich sound profile. The characteristics of the bottom housing generally exert a greater influence on the key's bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, making nylon a familiar and consistent choice across both models. As a result, despite the variance in top housing materials, users can expect a similar sensation when bottoming out the keys. This shared configuration in bottom housing suggests that while the auditory qualities differ in the release phase, users will still encounter a pleasing depth in sound regardless of the switch used.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a unique balance of sound characteristics, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) leans towards a more muted and rounded auditory experience due to the properties of its nylon top housing. The differences in top housing materials delineate a contrasting approach to sound design; however, the identical use of nylon in both switches’ bottoms ensures that users will experience a consistent tactile feeling and sound depth when pressing the keys. This interplay of materials emphasizes how different design choices can cater to varying preferences in auditory feedback while maintaining a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge that cater to various preferences in typing experience. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, alongside a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) requires a more significant actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to users who favor a distinctive and tactile feedback with a firmer keystroke. As a result, the Lavender Purple Pro is ideal for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended use, while the Lotus (Heavy) is tailored for individuals who enjoy a heftier, more robust typing experience. Thus, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the suitability of the switches for different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that those who prefer the tactile feedback and deeper keystrokes of the Lavender Purple Pro may find it more satisfying for tasks requiring a greater depth, while the Lotus (Heavy) may be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance. Therefore, if you prioritize a rapid actuation for gaming or fast typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the better choice, whereas if you appreciate a more pronounced key press, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would likely suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is characterized by a higher-pitched tone that resonates with a bright clarity, making it enjoyable for both typing and gaming. This acoustic quality adds to the overall experience, imbuing each keystroke with an engaging sound. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch also offers a bright and resonant sound, which complements its responsive nature. The similarity in their sound profiles indicates that, while they each have their unique pitch and resonance, both can provide a satisfying auditory feedback that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is classified as an accented tactile switch, offering a balanced tactile bump that is neither too aggressive nor too subtle, akin to a smooth, medium-level tactile experience. In addition, it provides a bouncy sensation thanks to its careful design, ensuring every keystroke feels springy and responsive. The V3 switch also boasts a polished feel, which contributes to smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is known for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing substantial resistance that many find ideal for a more deliberate typing experience. However, the specific descriptors for the feel of the Lotus switch are not detailed here.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in tactile feel and auditory feedback, yet they share commonalities in their engaging sound profiles, making each typing experience enjoyable. The V3 switch excels in providing a lively, tactile response coupled with a polished finish, while the Lotus offers a heavier weighting that might appeal to users who prefer more resistance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding tactile feedback and sound, as both switches promise to enhance the mechanical keyboard experience in unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch hinges on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you enjoy a typing experience that offers a delightful tactile bump accompanied by a snappy and responsive feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is your go-to option. With its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, this switch provides a lively and bouncy feedback that enhances both typing and gaming experiences, blending smooth key travel with a satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, if you lean towards a firmer feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is well-suited to your needs. With a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, it delivers a medium-heavy experience that emphasizes a bright and resonant sound, perfect for those who appreciate a more robust typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and lighter force of the Lavender Purple Pro or the heavier, bouncy feel of the Lotus (Heavy).
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